Harvest Sour
Overview
Whiskey sours are prime vehicles for autumnal flavors. Merely replacing the simple syrup with either maple, cinnamon, honey, ginger syrup - or any combination of those - will give you a revolving door of cozy and delicious options.
Many examples of these can be seen on the Whiskey Sour page, but I've given my favorite combo, which I’ve dubbed the Harvest Sour, the distinct honor of its own individual page. The blend of cinnamon and maple syrups is an irresistible pairing that still leaves bourbon in the driver's seat (sometimes I think too much spice can detract from the whiskey).
This is my favorite kind of cocktail to serve at social gatherings. It's a huge crowdpleaser that's simple to throw together, and sure to impresses. Perfect for an autumn or holiday occasion.
Recipe
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2 oz bourbon
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¾ oz lemon juice
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¾ oz cinnamon maple syrup
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2 dashes Angostura bitters
Combine all ingredients in a shaker, fill with ice. Shake and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with anything festive, an apple slice(s), cinnamon stick, and orange peel are nice.
Cinnamon Maple Syrup
You may be wondering, why isn't this syrup just equal parts (or maybe you aren't, but I'm going to tell you anyway)? The reason is, maple syrup has a much higher content than cinnamon syrup. And since sugar is a flavor conductor, using an equal parts syrup in this drink ends up being heavier on the maple flavor, as well as a little too sweet. With this ratio, the flavors are more balanced and it can be used in the same quantities as simple syrup - which just makes things easier.
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1 cup cinnamon syrup
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⅔ cup maple syrup
Briefly stir to mix. Store in refrigerator.
Commentary
Tweaks and Serving Options
This drink is also delicious if you split the bourbon with a little apple brandy or dark rum. Rye is great too. The drink still works without bitters, though they really tie all the flavors together.
This is an excellent option to serve as a batch or punch at a holiday party, just be sure to add enough water/ice for dilution (you can learn more about how to convert a recipe into a large format drink on the Batching page). Throw some cinnamon sticks and apple slices for garnish, a grated a little nutmeg on top.
If you make a Harvest Sour,
let me see! Tag a photo with @socialhourcocktails on Instagram.